We use cookies to enhance your experience on our website. By continuing to use our website, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time. Find out more

Subscriber login

Library card login

Other

X Close menu

Dictionary Language resources

fornicate

Pronunciation: /ˈfɔːnɪkeɪt/

Definition of fornicate

verb

[no object] formal or humorous

have sexual intercourse with someone one is not married to.

Derivatives

fornicator

Origin:

Middle English (as fornication): from ecclesiastical Latin fornicat- 'arched', from fornicari, from Latin fornix, fornic- 'vaulted chamber', later 'brothel'